Before You Build in Baltimore, MD: Permit & Rule Checklist (2026)
Everything you need to know before starting a home improvement project
Building a fence, installing a pool, or adding a shed? Each project has its own set of local permits and rules in Baltimore. This guide consolidates fence, pool, ADU, shed, fire pit, and landscaping regulations into one checklist so you know what to expect before you start.
Quick Permit Checklist
At-a-glance overview of permit categories in Baltimore. Click any card for details.
Fences & Walls
2 rules on file
Swimming Pools
1 rule on file
ADUs & Granny Flats
1 rule on file
Sheds & Outbuildings
1 rule on file
Fire Pits & Outdoor Structures
2 rules on file
Landscaping & Tree Removal
1 rule on file
Fences & Walls
Some RestrictionsHeight limits, materials, permits, and shared fence rules.
Neighbor Fence Rules
Some RestrictionsMaryland has no shared fence cost statute. Each owner responsible for their own fence. Spite fence provision under MD RP Art. §14-120.
Height Limits
Some RestrictionsBaltimore limits fence heights: typically 6 feet rear/side, 4 feet front yard. MD Real Property Art. §14-120 addresses spite fences over 6 feet.
Swimming Pools
Heavy RestrictionsPool permits, safety fencing, and drainage requirements.
Fencing Requirements
Heavy RestrictionsBaltimore City Building Code Section 3109 requires swimming pools, spas, and hot tubs to comply with the International Swimming Pool and Spa Code (Part XII), Health Department rules, and the City Zoning Code.
ADUs & Granny Flats
Some RestrictionsAccessory dwelling unit rules and garage conversion permits.
ADU Rules
Some RestrictionsBaltimore's Article 32 Zoning Code does not have a general 'ADU' use, but Section 15-504 allows existing carriage houses in any Residential or OR District to be converted into a single-family detached dwelling, treated as an accessory structure on the same lot.
Sheds & Outbuildings
Some RestrictionsShed permits, setback limits, and outbuilding size rules.
Shed Rules
Some RestrictionsBaltimore Building Code Section 105.2 exempts one-story detached accessory structures used as tool/storage sheds or playhouses from a building permit when floor area is 120 sq ft or less. Article 32 Sec. 15-501 still limits height to 15 ft and rear-yard coverage to 50%.
Fire Pits & Outdoor Structures
Heavy RestrictionsFire pit placement, outdoor burning restrictions, and permits.
Fire Pit Rules
Heavy RestrictionsBaltimore tightly restricts open recreational fires within city limits. The Baltimore City Fire Department prohibits ground fires in dense residential zones. Approved propane and natural-gas pits are allowed with clearance requirements; wood-burning pits face the strictest standards.
Outdoor Burning
Heavy RestrictionsBaltimore prohibits burning leaves, brush, and yard waste outdoors. Maryland air-quality regulations and city fire code combine to ban almost all open burning except small recreational fires and approved cooking devices.
Landscaping & Tree Removal
Some RestrictionsTree removal permits, heritage tree protections, and water rules.
Tree Trimming
Some RestrictionsBaltimore may protect certain tree species. Street trees managed by county. Maryland suburban counties have strong tree canopy protections.
General Permit Tips
When do you typically need a permit?
Most cities require permits for structural work, including fences over a certain height, pools, ADUs, and sheds above a size threshold. Even projects that seem minor can trigger permit requirements, so it is always best to check first.
How to apply for a building permit
Visit your local building department or their website. Most jurisdictions accept online applications. You will typically need a site plan, project description, and may need contractor information. Processing times vary from same-day for simple projects to several weeks for larger builds.
Common permit violations to avoid
Building without a permit, exceeding approved dimensions, and ignoring setback requirements are the most common violations. Penalties can include fines, required removal of the structure, and complications when selling your home.
Looking for rules beyond permits? View all ordinances we track for Baltimore.